How Malaprop’s is managing its inventory in tough economic times

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

1

Interesting story overall by Publisher’s Weekly on how book-sellers are managing inventory, one of the few controllable costs for a bookstore. Here’s the Malaprop’s section:

While many stores are removing shelving along with inventory, Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe in Asheville, N.C., is doing the opposite. There hasn’t been much inventory to cut, because the store runs a daily hot list and checks inventory and sales on a weekly and monthly basis. “We always think in terms of books being nonreturnable, even though they are,” said general manager Linda Barrett Knopp, who stresses caution when ordering. The additional shelving is part of a redesign that will give the store a chance to display its increased sidelines. The makeover will be complete by the end of March.